Unearthing Rell

Rell

Rell’s story is one of true artistry and perseverance. From the streets of New York City to the iconic halls of Roc-A-Fella Records, he’s quietly built a legacy rooted in soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Being part of a label that revolutionized hip-hop, Rell learned early on the importance of staying true to himself. Today, he continues to inspire with music that’s honest, raw, and deeply personal. Join us as we explore Rell’s journey — from his beginnings to the legacy he’s still creating.

Q: New music, "I Got You" -- how did this particular track come to fruition?

“I Got You” is just one of many demos that I have where real live is the focus. 

Q: How then does "I Got You" compare to or differ from your previous songs?

It’s no comparison for me. Just a recycling of the same energies that make therapeutic music what it is. Different day. Same frequency. 

Q: What all exactly had / have you been up to, both personally and professionally speaking, during your musical hiatus? 

I never took a hiatus from music. I simply wasn’t in your radar. I was lending my pen to indie clients worldwide, being son to village in SC, a father to my kids, and a mentor to local artists and music peers. 

Q: Reflecting, tell me about your musical beginnings. When did this journey start for you?

I am from a family of music, especially singers. I was just one of the few who took the craft seriously. Church was the only platform in that time. Choirs and male choruses were the proving grounds. My love for Soul music came directly from church. 

Q: Growing up in the Dairy Capital of South Carolina, who were some of your biggest influences?

Outside of church, radio and my grandparents record collections were my biggest influences. I remember listening to artists from Malaco, Motown, Atlantic, and many others. They all played a part in my young inspiration. They were the only way to tap into secular music.

Q: How do you define your style?

I still don’t know who RELL truly Is. I hope I never do. RELL is an ever evolving brand. Each point in time has its own soundtrack. I simply try to keep it grown and therapeutic, and I try to keep my sound enjoyable for ages. 

Q: As a songwriter, where do you draw inspiration from?

I draw inspiration from everywhere. Anything that might resonate with people is worth trying in the studio. 

Q: Initially signed to Jay-Z's Roc-A-Fella Records, where you'd go on to release “Love for Free,” from your since shelved solo debut, The Remedy -- In retrospect, with that momentum back then why do you feel things played out in the manner that they did? 

A number of things could’ve attributed to my Remedy album not being released. I will never truly know because a lot of the politics were bigger than me at that point in time. In the end, I take the blame for my lack of knowledge of music business. Since then, I have released The Remedy album myself. It’s now on all major platforms. 

Q: In '05, you dropped “Real Love,” which was to be followed by a full length effort, Long Time Coming, yet nothing ever materialized -- How come?

Actually “Real Love” was created before the Roc-A-Fella split. But, the split itself was why I held off on releasing Long Time Coming. And, of course, there was a shift in the direction of R’n’B.

Q: Switching gears here, what do you hope people take away from your music?

I want people to feel the relativity of everyday life in my music. 

Rell

Q: Dream collaboration — who would it be?

I don’t really have a dream collaboration. I would work with most of my peers in the industry. There are some who I would only consider dream collabs now because they are deceased. Too many to name; Biggie, Nip, Prince, Marvin, Donny Hathaway. List goes on. 

Q: If you could play any venue in the world, where would it be?

Any venue in the world? MSG packed out!

Q: How do you feel about the current state of R&B?

R’n’B is in the prequel of a recycling that will eventually become a rebirth. It is reinventing itself as we speak.  

Q: What’s the key to your longevity?

The key to my longevity is knowing that business terrains can change, and allowing that basic knowledge to keep me fresh in my approach to creating both music and business opportunities.

Q: Beyond music, what else, if anything, do you want to do?

Outside of releasing music and expanding my WoofSoundz  brand, I wish to elevate other worthy artists that they may accomplish their music goals as well.

Q: Biggest career moments so far?

I feel my greatest moment in music is still yet to come. For now, we’ll say writing “Here I Stand” for Usher. 

Q: What’s an average day like for you?

Obviously, my average day is busy. Several conference calls. Creating music. Putting in time with my family and associates.

Q: How do you interact with your fans?

I interact with fans mainly on social media. Instagram: @officialrellmusic is my preferred hub. But, I’m building my TikTok and YT audience as we speak. 

Q: Favorite and least favorite parts of this work?

I love creating music. I don’t love a lot of what happens in the other stages before it’s released to the people. Ill regulated.

Q: What advice would you give to someone following in your footsteps?

It is imperative to know this business before you enter it. Read, research, and seek alliances with experienced people that you can learn from. Artists must be prepared to put in their own ground work from the beginning.

Q: Five to ten years from now, where do you see yourself?

5-10 years from now, I plan to be owner of several businesses and mentor to several others.

Q: What’s next for you, Rell? 

Up next for me is the release of the single, “I GOT YOU,” followed by the album also titled I GOT YOU.

Q: Any parting words for our readers?

To All My Fans and Followers, Thank You for Your Undying Love and Support. And to this platform, Thank You for allowing me to partake in this interview. Blessings.

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